In Jewish tradition, the mezuzah is more than just a ritual object—it is a symbol of faith, protection and connection to our heritage. Affixed to the doorposts of Jewish homes, it serves as a tangible link to mitzvot and tradition. But what happens when a family needs to remove their mezuzot for checking or while moving to a new home? How can we ensure that no Jewish home is left without this sacred item, even temporarily?
To address this need, Englewood resident Maia Arakanchi has launched a unique initiative: a temporary mezuzah lending service. This project provides kosher mezuzot to those who require them while their own are being examined by a sofer (scribe) or during a transition between homes. Whether ensuring their mezuzot remain in proper halachic condition or awaiting a fresh installation in a new residence, families can maintain their spiritual protection without interruption.
The inspiration for this initiative comes from Arakanchi’s father, Benjamin Yehezkel, who was deeply committed to the mitzvah of mezuzah. He strongly encouraged people to check their mezuzot annually, emphasizing that exposure to the elements, fading ink or minor damage could render them invalid. Regular inspections ensure that these sacred parchments remain kosher and continue to fulfill their purpose.
Yehezkel frequently took mezuzah scrolls (klafim) from family and friends to specialized facilities where they were examined using advanced computer software. This technology helps identify missing, cracked or substituted letters that might invalidate the scroll. However, software alone cannot determine whether the script meets halachic standards, so a sofer must still review the mezuzot manually, ensuring proper letter formation and correcting any necessary flaws. Yehezkel also encouraged individuals to check their tefillin annually.
A key contributor to this initiative is Arakanchi’s brother-in-law, Chaim Segev, a seasoned sofer with years of experience writing mezuzot and Torah scrolls. He has taken on the meaningful task of writing mezuzot specifically for this lending service, ensuring each one meets the highest halachic standards.
Segev began studying sofrut (Jewish scribal arts) in 1998 under Rabbi Badihi in Jerusalem.. Over the past 27 years, he has written 15 klafim pro bono for homes across Israel. His meticulous craftsmanship is well recognized within the community. “He’s a very precise writer,” said Arakanchi. In addition to standard mezuzot, Segev produces mehudarmezuzot—higher-quality scrolls that meet even stricter halachic requirements. While regular mezuzot range from $85 to $140, mehudar ones start at $140.
Israel Lew, a satisfied customer, shared: “I have high recommendations and excellent experience with him. Chaim has written mezuzot, scrolls and Torah scrolls for people in the community and around the world. He personally wrote mezuzot for us several times when we moved.”
Beyond his work as a sofer, Segev is actively involved in kiruv. He participates in singing and dancing events near the Kotel in Jerusalem, using music to inspire and uplift those around him. He also organizes and leads shabbatons with Jewish organizations in Israel and facilitates Pesach programs for Jewish communities worldwide. His presence at these gatherings has left a lasting impact, forging meaningful connections with Jews from all walks of life.
Through these interactions, Segev has built relationships that extend beyond song and dance. In fact, one of the individuals he inspired at these events later sponsored him to write two sifrei Torah for synagogues in their communities. His dedication to both his craft and his faith allows him to serve the Jewish people in multiple ways—through the written word of Torah and the power of music.
This temporary mezuzah lending service not only helps families maintain the mitzvah of mezuzah without interruption but also raises awareness about the importance of preserving the integrity of these sacred parchments. Many people are unaware that their mezuzah may no longer be kosher and could require replacement or repair. By offering temporary replacements, the initiative ensures that no home is left without this vital symbol, even for a short period.
In the long term, Arakanchi hopes this initiative will inspire more people to take mezuzah checking seriously. Whether by borrowing a temporary mezuzah, donating to support the initiative, or simply spreading the word, everyone can contribute to strengthening this cherished tradition.
For those in need of a temporary mezuzah or wishing to support the project, please contact Arakanchi at [email protected].
